Unfortunately our 2nd XV were frustrated early by the forfeit of a league clash against Ipswich YM, but luckily Norwich RFC 2nd XV stepped in to give our boys the chance to play some rugby.

West Norfolk were the visitors for our Men's 1st XV. They have enjoyed a good start to the season and were sitting in 5th place before kick-off, two places above our first team.

The game began and both sides exchanged early blows. It was unfortunate to lose centre Ben Grimwood early on to a head knock, but that allowed the talented youngster Joe Mallet to take to the field early on debut. The first 10 minutes could have been described as a stagnant arm wrestle. With our forwards pressing hard and the backs looking to use their skill out wide, it was unfortunate that a handling error in midfield gifted West Norfolk the first try of the game, with their player kicking through from half way and chasing down his kick to go in under the posts.

A positive response was vital and we were quickly on the offensive. Following some well-drilled work from a lineout in our half, a break from Tim Mann out wide put the in form winger Oli Garnham haring down the wing and looking odds on to score. Some of the cover defence was excellent and centre Jamie Plumb finished off the break, being rewarded for his excellent support play.

A number of areas were clicking well for us after the first tries but we were frustrated to gift West Norfolk the lead. Some passive defending and disjointed catching and passing allowed the away side to feed off our mistakes. A response was needed and it was pleasing to see Andrew Goodbourn go crashing over before the break after some strong forwards play. Half time score 14-19.

An honest half time break saw a huge momentum shift and the boys were able to really push on and take the initiative. The second half started fast and the tries quickly flew in from Jake Goodwin and, four minutes later, Tom Jermy culminating some good support play from Monty Douglas.

West Norfolk were not keen to lie down, however, and they responded with some attacks of their own. The boys really dug deep and put in some committed and energetic defending which kept them at bay for long periods. The intensity of the defensive effort often coughed up penalties and gave us a chance to relieve the pressure. Continuing his good form from the bench, Monty Douglas got himself on the score sheet again with a powerful score.

The pressure did eventually tell and West Norfolk were able to get a consolation try to bring the score to 31-24 with 10 minutes to play. A late flurry of possession and pace saw Jake Steward crash over for his second in two games, and once again the finishing skills of Ollie Garnham rounded off the result.

Comments from Lead Coach Ash Cook:

"It's a mixed bag of emotions. The scoreline is great for us and it's a result that reflects the work the boys have put into developing our attack. Our defensive energy and commitment in the second half produced some great moments for us to reflect on but we afforded them too many opportunities. Thankfully we were smart and committed enough to go through a number of long defensive sets and not concede.

"On the other hand, it took us far too long to wake up in the first half which put us under a bit of unnecessary pressure. Ultimately we responded really well to the situation and trusted in our own processes which has won us the day. So many of the boys are starting to come into form and selection is getting harder and harder for us, which is a great place to be and long may it continue."

Final score: 41-24
Men's 1st XV sponsor: Dynamic Fluid Solutions
Player of the match: Jon Ives
Player of the match sponsor: The Lord Nelson

The result comes after a busy weekend at the club, with our under 13's boys playing some great rugby in a curtain raiser before the senior fixtures on Saturday. This was followed by RWC fixtures in the club house and our annual Oktoberfest social event which had a fantastic turn-out! Sore heads were soothed on Sunday with our Inner Warrior women's taster session plus our Sunday Lunch event where attendees enjoyed a two-course meal, games and a fantastic England win.

Thanks to all who joined us for a top weekend at HDL.